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Donna Breen Obituary

Donna Louise Breen, 67, of San Luis Obispo, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2009, at her home with her loving husband Mike, two sons Gary and Marty, and daughter-in-law Cameryn (Marty) by her side. Donna was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and was an only child of Evelyn and Harry Backer. Donna met Mike when they attended Ohio State University and fell in love. They had just celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary. After graduation, they moved to California, eventually settling in Moraga where they raised their two sons. Donna worked as a dental hygienist. They relocated to San Luis Obispo in 1990 and enjoyed building houses and creating a beautiful home in the Edna Valley. Donna loved many things in life - her vacations and travel to Lake Almanor, Mexico, Arizona and Cayman Islands. She loved playing golf with her girlfriends, hiking on trails, exchanging family recipes, challenging crossword puzzles, quilting, knitting, creating and sharing life long memories and family traditions. Donna did not want to lose her fight with cancer. She was courageous, strong and committed to living a full life and in the end, she won through the inspiration she provided us all. Donna will be remembered for her thoughtful, generous heart and love of her family and close friends. Donna is also further survived by her dear cousin, Dave Backer; daughter-in-law, Anna (Gary); two grandchildren Faith and Gabriella; and beloved dog, Rusti. A service will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 25, 2009, at the First Presbyterian Church, 981 Marsh St. in San Luis Obispo, with a celebration to follow. In lieu of cards or flowers, donations can be made in her name to the First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, 981 Marsh Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401; or the LiveStrong Cancer Foundation at www.livestrong.org. You are invited to visit Donna''s memorial website to share thoughts, photos and memories of Donna at http://memorialwebsites.legacy.com/donnabreen/homepage.aspx

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Jul. 8, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Donna Breen

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Tom Brians

August 3, 2009

Mike, sorry to hear of Donna's passing, our prayers and thoughts for you and the boys, you were a special couple we have the privilidge of knowing. Tom and Donna Brians

July 25, 2009

Dear Mike, Marty, Gary and family,

The Orinda RoadRunners would like to extend their condolences to all of you on the passing of Donna. We have many fond running memories of all of the Breens and hope that your days will be filled with those of Donna.

The Orinda RoadRunners

Jim and Audrey O'Donnell

July 14, 2009

Dear Mike and family,
We were saddened to read about Donna. In St. Monica's Catholic Church bulletin they have asked for prayers for the sick. We saw the name Donna Breen but had no idea it was the Donna Breen we knew.
We remember a great trip to Palm Springs during the fuel crisis that we spent with you both. There were the four couples with a good time had by all.
Our good thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time.

Wynne and Gary Bacon

July 10, 2009

Dear Mike, Marty, Gary, and the family,
We were so sorry to hear about Donna. She was so brave, and we know that your wonderful memories of her will help to comfort you. We send you our love and deepest sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Juliana Pieri

July 9, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Donna is now at peace, no more pain. God Bless all!!

July 8, 2009

It was a privilege for Kathy and I to know Donna. Donna did truly fight the battle with cancer with Mike always by her side. Her courage was an inspiration to all of us. We wil all miss Donna.

Love
Duke and Kathy

Gail Cragg

July 8, 2009

May all of you find comfort in the love that Donna had for all of you.
You're all in my thoughts and prayers.

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